Thursday, September 1, 2011

His Star Has Turned From Blue to Gold

WATAUGA (CBSDFW.COM) – A son, a brother and a solider: Spc. Michael Roberts of Watagua died Saturday in Afghanistan.

“He wasn’t just another soldier who died, he loved and touched everyone,” brother Patrick Roberts said.

A call to serve was perhaps in the 23-year-old’s destiny, his family says. The solider from North Texas was the youngest of three brothers – all of whom enlisted in the Army. Eldest brother, Patrick Roberts, set the example his brother would follow.

“I see my little brother go from waiting tables at a local restaruant, to serving in the same Army I did,” Patrick Roberts said.

From a young age, Roberts demonstrated a dedication to contribute. He carried that spirit of service and eagerness to learn throughout this four-year military career, which was laced with earned accolades that include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

“He wanted to serve his country – contribute, make a big contribution to society and he felt by going into the army, he could do that,” mother Kathy Roberts said.

Roberts was serving in the Kandahar Province, assigned to the 561st Military Police Compnay when he died. He was struck by an improvised explosive device, an IED. Roberts was deployed to Afghanistan last month.

That was the last time his parents saw him.

“He was quite the man and he’ll be sorely missed,” father David Roberts said.

The fun-loving solider with a genuine heart and affinity for cooking is remembered as a humble leader; one whose legacy will live on in the lives he touched and leaves behind, they say.

“I’m going to continue to serve in honor of him,” middle brother Brian Roberts said. “I’m going to try to go as strong as he did. That’s the only way I know how to honor him.”

Roberts graduated from Richland High School in 2006. He was a part of the wrestling team and he played the tuba.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

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May Almighty God Bless this brave Soldier.
May God comfort his family, friends and comrades.

Airman's Creed

The Airman’s CreedI am an American Airman.
I am a warrior.
I have answered my nation’s call.
I am an American Airman.
My mission is to fly, fight, and win.
I am faithful to a proud heritage,
A tradition of honor,
And a legacy of valor.
I am an American Airman,
Guardian of freedom and justice,
My nation's sword and shield,
Its sentry and avenger.
I defend my country with my life.
I am an American Airman:
Wingman, leader, warrior.
I will never leave an Airman behind,
I will never falter,
And I will not fail.